What It Means to Be Named One of NZ Lawyer’s Most Influential Lawyers in 2024
I'm honoured to share that I’ve been named one of the 2024 NZ Lawyer Most Influential Lawyers, a recognition that represents more than just personal achievement it symbolises the values I stand for and the work I remain committed to in the New Zealand legal community.
This award is not given lightly. It reflects the results of a comprehensive, four-month industry review conducted by NZ Lawyer’s 30+ person Intelligence Unit, involving in-depth research, independent interviews, and peer nominations. To be recognised among such an exceptional group of legal professionals is both humbling and energising.
Recognition That Reflects Purpose, Not Just Performance
For me, this accolade is not just about the milestones I’ve reached it’s about the why behind the work. Whether advocating for clients in complex criminal defence matters, facilitating access to high-quality cultural reports, or working to ensure more equitable outcomes in sentencing, every case is a chance to uphold the principles of fairness and justice.
Being included in NZ Lawyer’s list reinforces that these efforts matter not just to clients, but to the legal profession as a whole.
What This Means for My Clients
Legal proceedings are stressful, confusing, and often deeply personal. Recognition at this level signals to my clients that they are receiving legal support that is not only experienced and strategic, but also respected across the industry.
Clients can feel confident knowing their defence is in the hands of someone who is both results-driven and recognised for setting a high standard of legal ethics and advocacy.
What This Means for My Peers
The legal field is changing. We’re seeing more demand for lawyers who are not only technically excellent, but also culturally aware, emotionally intelligent, and community-focused. I’m proud to be part of this shift and to have my name associated with values that prioritise empathy, access to justice, and accountability.
I hope this recognition encourages other practitioners especially women, people of colour, and those from underrepresented communities to know their work is seen, valued, and impactful. We shape the future of the profession together, and every step forward matters.
A Moment of Gratitude and Momentum
This award belongs not just to me, but to everyone who has trusted me with their legal challenges, to the mentors and peers who have helped sharpen my thinking, and to the professionals I collaborate with every day from report writers to court staff—who contribute to meaningful outcomes for clients.
To be named a Most Influential Lawyer is a career highlight, but it’s also a reminder: the work continues. There are still stories to tell, justice to fight for, and systems to improve. I remain as committed as ever to using my voice and platform to advocate for fairness and reform in our justice system.
Thank you to NZ Lawyer for this honour. And thank you to everyone who walks this path of purpose with me.
